Researching, writing and compiling this last issue of the year—our annual Innovative Packaging edition—took me on an inspiring journey through the many outstanding packages that beauty industry suppliers and brands have created over the past few months. While “Innovative Packaging Takes a High-Tech Twist” (p. 18) looks at the trend toward packages that mimic electronic and laboratory devices, this month’s features on Decorative Effects and Dispensing Solutions reveal prime examples of advancements in the areas that ultimately make both primary and secondary packages shine.

The most successful and sophisticated beauty packages often bring together innovative componentry, dispensing solutions and decorative effects. Such is the case with Estée Lauder’s latest product launch—Re-Nutriv Ultimate Diamond Sculpting/Refinishing Dual Infusion. As you’ll see, in an exclusive interview with David Bourguignat, director, global package development, for the Re-Nutriv franchise, this launch has taken innovative packaging and dispensing to the next level.

While many of these advances have been made in regard to luxury packaging, manufacturers are also finding ways to bring a high-end look to cosmeceutical lines and even mass brands, as customers at every level now expect a superior level of package design and function.

This was a recurring trend that publisher Jay Gorga and I noted at Luxe Pack Monaco this year—and one that was underscored by my walk around the show floor with international package designer Marc Rosen, who is also a member of Beauty Packaging’s Board of Advisors. Our overall impression was that “Luxury packaging is in full swing—and prestige seems to have no limits.”

This sentiment was also recently voiced by Karen Grant—vice president and global industry analyst, The NPD Group, Inc.—and a member of Beauty Packaging’s Board of Advisors—who revealed that in the third quarter of 2014, sales of U.S. prestige beauty products reached $2.4 billion, a 6% increase from Q3 2013.

With this promising year-end news, Jay Gorga and I wish you a very Happy Holiday—and look forward to bringing you all the best in beauty packages and trends in 2015—in print and online 24/7 at BeautyPackaging.com.